Cetostearyl Alcohol – The co-emulsifying excipient for enhanced formulation performance

1. General introduction to Cetostearyl Alcohol

Cetostearyl Alcohol is a mixture of long-chain fatty alcohols consisting of 50–70% stearyl alcohol (C₁₈H₃₈O) and 20–35% cetyl alcohol (C₁₆H₃₄O), with these two components comprising at least 90% of the material (in pharmacopeias). It is widely used in topical pharmaceutical formulations as an emollient, viscosity-enhancing agent, and emulsifying agent. Typically used in combination with primary emulsifying agents, cetostearyl alcohol enhances emulsification efficiency and improves the stability of both oil-in-water (O/W) and water-in-oil (W/O) emulsions, while reducing the amount of primary emulsifier required in the formulation.

Cetostearyl Alcohol is primarily derived from natural waxes and can also be semi-synthesized from fatty acids of vegetable and animal origin. Like most fatty alcohols, it is a solid at room temperature and is generally regarded as non-irritating to the skin. In topical pharmaceutical formulations, cetostearyl alcohol is considered an essential multifunctional excipient; it improves emulsion stability, enhances product texture and sensory attributes, reduces the amount of emulsifier required, and contributes to the development of high-quality topical formulations.

2. Typical properties of Cetostearyl Alcohol

• Material Name           : Cetostearyl Alcohol 
• Empirical formula      : 50 - 70% C₁₈H₃₇OH (stearyl alcohol) và 20 - 35% C₁₆H₃₃OH (cetyl alcohol)
• Appearance                : occurs as white or cream-colored unctuous masses, flakes, pellets or granules, with a characteristic sweet odor
• Soubility                     : soluble in ethanol (95%), ether, and oil; practically insoluble in water
• Density bulk               : ~0,80 g/cm³ at 20°C
• Melting range            : 48 - 56°C (depending on the ratio of stearyl alcohol/cetyl alcohol)
• Incompatibilities       : Cetostearyl alcohol is incompatible with strong oxidizing agents and metal salts

The material is rigorously controlled for the following parameters:

• Identification and assay of stearyl alcohol and cetyl alcohol
• Appearance, solubility, and melting range
• Iodine value
• Acid value
• Hydroxyl value
• Saponification value

3. Key advantages of Cetostearyl Alcohol

• Optimized for Ointment and Cream Formulations:Cetostearyl Alcohol is a multifunctional excipient widely used in topical semisolid formulations, combining three essential functions in a single ingredient: a viscosity-enhancing agent, emollient, and emulsifier/co-emulsifier. This multifunctionality simplifies formulation design, optimizes the manufacturing process, shortens production time, and helps reduce manufacturing costs while maintaining the stability and quality of the finished product.
• Excellent Co-emulsifying Performance: is commonly used as a co-emulsifier, significantly enhancing the emulsification efficiency and water-holding capacity of primary emulsifiers, particularly in oil-in-water (O/W) emulsion systems (example: Vaseline). As a result, it improves emulsion stability and enhances the overall physical stability of the finished product.
• Excellent Biocompatibility: exhibits excellent compatibility with the skin, with a low potential for irritation and good tolerability in topical formulations. In addition to its emollient properties, it improves skin feel during application and helps maintain the skin's natural barrier function, thereby enhancing patient comfort and product acceptability.
• Broad Formulation Compatibility: is highly compatible with a wide range of oils, waxes, emulsifiers, and other pharmaceutical excipients while maintaining formulation stability. This characteristic provides greater flexibility in formulation development, broadens excipient selection options, and supports the development of various semisolid dosage forms, including creams, ointments, and lotions.

4. Applications of Cetostearyl Alcohol

Cetostearyl alcohol is widely used across multiple industries, especially in high-value product segments due to its ability to stabilize formulations and enhance sensory performance:

In pharmaceuticals

• Topical creams: provides smooth texture, easy application, and uniform distribution of active ingredients
• Ointments: enhances viscosity and adhesion, improving retention time on the skin
• Dermatological treatments: stabilizes formulations, prevents separation, and ensures consistent performance throughout shelf life

In premium cosmetics

• Skincare creams: creates a rich yet non-greasy texture with good absorption
• Lotions: balances fluidity and stability, preventing phase separation over time
• Anti-aging products: supports moisture retention and enhances skin feel, delivering a premium user experience

In veterinary applications

• Topical treatments: improves adhesion on skin or fur, reducing wash-off and increasing effectiveness
• Animal care products:stabilizes formulations for easier use and longer shelf life

5. Commercial products using Cetostearyl Alcohol

6. Product contact information

For more information about Cetostearyl Alcoholsupply, please contact us:

• Hotline: +84 (0) 834 560 500
• Email: director@biorichgroup.com
• Website: www.biorichgroup.com
• Sample / COA request: Please contact us via email to receive product samples and the latest Certificate of Analysis (COA).